Computer and Information Science
Welcome to the Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE) in Visual and Interactive Computing (VIC)—the next generation of Penn’s prestigious Digital Media Design (DMD) program. Built upon a twenty-year legacy of elite innovation, VIC bridges the gap between computer science and the power of visual expression.
This program is a rigorous, systems-focused engineering degree designed for students who refuse to separate technical brilliance from creative vision. Students dive beneath the surface of digital interfaces, fusing foundational computer science, applied mathematics, and low-level software engineering with elite training in fine arts, design, and visual communication. By mastering both the underlying algorithmic infrastructure and the principles of human-centered design, you will engineer the future of real-time rendering, physics-based simulation, interactive virtual environments, and generative AI. Equipped with this rare and highly sought-after dual fluency, you won’t just build the technologies of tomorrow. You will shape how humanity experiences them.
Students may select an optional focus area. Although not formally documented on a student’s academic record, these areas include recommended coursework for those interested in specific subjects within VIC. You can find more information and a list of possible focus areas here.
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As we enter our next era, the Digital Media Design (DMD) program is evolving into the Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Visual and Interactive Computing (VIC) beginning in Fall 2026. Current DMD students, including our incoming admitted class, can use the FAQs below to explore how this exciting next chapter shapes your academic path and find advising contact information to help you navigate your options.
Visual and Interactive Computing (VIC) is a multidisciplinary program combining computer science, design and emerging technologies. Building on the foundation of Digital Media Design, VIC expands opportunities in areas such as artificial intelligence, augmented and virtual reality, and human-computer interaction, preparing students for careers at the forefront of creative and technical innovation.
No. Most current DMD students will have the option to either remain in DMD or transfer to VIC. Students seeking to declare the VIC major must be able to graduate within 8 semesters in total (or 10 semesters for dual-degree students) of declaring. DMD students entering their fourth year or beyond do not have the option to transfer.
Yes. You have the option to switch to VIC or remain DMD since that is the program you initially applied for. Note: incoming first-year students cannot change their major until the first day of classes.
We recommend current DMD students switch by the start of their junior year. Juniors will be considered on a case-by case basis during this transition.
Current DMD students will need to follow a two-step process: 1. Email a complete, 4-year academic plan to jkimpel@seas.upenn.edu and 2. Submit a Declare/Update Field of Study form.
Our main goal is to welcome a larger pool of students whose interests may pull from more areas than computer graphics and design. VIC will incorporate students who are interested in the intersection of computer science and the fine arts as they relate to animation, human-centered methods in interface design, AI-generated media and experiences, and the design of virtual reality environments and interactive technologies.
In VIC, we have replaced Automata, Computability and Complexity with an Introduction to AI course, and expanded the intermediate elective options to include courses in Software Engineering and Human Computer Interaction. Please note that DMD electives have also been updated and are now restricted to focus specifically on Fine Arts and Design courses.
Those with questions should contact VIC Program Director, Adam Mally (amally@seas.upenn.edu), and copy VIC Academic Advisor, Jessica Kimpel (jkimpel@seas.upenn.edu).
